Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My kitten is throwing up and not eating. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 8 lbs

Hello, I just recently got my kitten Mooshoo. The pet store estimated that he was about 12 weeks old. I am a first time cat owner and do not have much knowledge when it comes to them. He has just recently thrown up twice within the past few hours, and has not eaten since. The first time he threw up his food and the second time being only bile and what I'm assuming is stomach acid. I am going to take him to a vet in the morning but am wondering if I should take him to an emergency hospital?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

Veterinarian

Published on August 16th, 2017

I'm sorry Mooshoo has been vomiting! If he is acting lethargic or the vomiting continues for the next couple of hours I would consider taking him to the emergency vet just to be on the safe side. They may want to check lab work and x-rays to make sure there is no evidence of an obstruction. Otherwise I think it's fine for your vet to see him tomorrow. Intestinal parasites are very common in kittens so that could be a possibility.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Catherine Stecyk

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 28th, 2018

    Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It sounds like your new kitten is very sick. Vomiting and diarrhea in very young animals can cause them to become rapidly dehydrated, and especially if he is not eating, he may become hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) which can lead to life-threatening seizures. If he continues to act lethargic and will not eat or drink water, I recommend bringing him to a veterinarian as soon as possible, whether that is an emergency vet or your primary veterinarian. He/she will be able to perform a full physical exam and assess Azban's hydration status and measure his blood glucose level. Based on this information, he/she can make treatment recommendations. I hope this is helpful!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored